Pleime Battle Viewed From G3/I Field Force Vietnam
(20 October 1965 - 30 October 1965)

Following are entries pertaining to Pleime battle extracted from the Daily Journal kept by G3 General Staff of I Field Force Vietnam, stationed in Nha Trang.

20 October 65

- 01:50H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Plei My SF Camp (ZA 146764) under attack by est 2 VC's w/2-81mm mortars, 1-57mm rifle and SA fire. Requested flare ship was sent plus 1-L19 for communications. 2 A1E's will be dispatched plus two F-100's. 1 US WIA, 2 CIDG WIA.

- 05:00H: II Corps (Lt Williams) wrap up - Plei My attack 1900, est 2 VC Co, 3 WIA, 1 US, 2 GIDG. 0030, request for flare ship ZA 146764 have been sent, 8 A1E and two B57. Attack had increased and still in progress.

- 06:30H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Plei My casualty report 7 WIA, 1 US Special Forces (concussion).

- 09:00H: II Corps - Followup on Plei My: at 0645 Plei My Camp rec'd SA fire north end of camp.

- 10:30H: II Corps followup on Plei My: At 10191900, camp hit w/SA fire 2200, probe by 20-40 VC. 2215, requested flare ship, 2 gun ships. 2230, no fire rec'd. 2400, rec'd 81mm mortar fire. 2005, 2 GIDG WIA, 0015 1 US SF NCO slightly WIA. 0020, Plei My Camp lost radio contact w/one OP. 0030, requested ammo resupply. 0558, rec'd mortar, AW and 57 fire. 0645, SA fire. 0702, SA fire cont. 0830, Ammo resupply landed outside gate. On attempting recovery rec'd heavy SA fire. Unknown whether ammo was recovered. 0950, conducted air strike, results unknown. 1000, est enemy strength: USSF est 1 VC Bn. 1025, latest cas, 3 KIA, WIA 9 exact total unknown) med evac in process. 0340, TOT of first air strike (results unknown).

- 11:35H: II Corps - 0950 armed UH1B shot down providing air cover for resupply not believed to have survivors, crew of 4. 1030, 1 B57 crashed, result of heavy ground fire. Crew bailed out have been recovered, B57 secure. At approx 1030 1 B57 landed at next Pleiku result of heavy ground fire. Camp receiving heavy pressure fm north and east. Appears VC are well armed.

- 12:35H: Fm Lt Col Broughton G3 Adm for Col Barrow. II Corps would like the two Abn Rngr Co's and helilift moved ASAP to Camp Holloway Army Airfield Pku where they will stage for airmobile opn airlanded assault vic Plei Me. Lt Col Broughton asked again about air assets offered. Told 12 passable, 14 H34 and 4 gun ships, no CH47. Lt Col Broughton was asked what troops will be committed by II Corps. Ans unk at this time, firm answer around 1315 after return of SA. But II Corps may request assistance from 1st Air Cav Div. Murray advised Broughton that CG, is not keen on committing the Cav in that area at this time. Broughton said only an alert for possible request and asked what this would do to Than Phong 6 opn. Murray reiterated previous statement about CG not keen.

- 13:25H: II Corps (Capt Neary) - 2 Abn Ranger Co's are at Phu Cat. US Advisor is Capt Gretz. Strength of each Co is 110. Will be available for pick up at 1330 hrs. Co's are being alerted through US channels at this time. Request FFV contact 5th SF Gp and alert ARVN channels.

- 13:40H: Fm Col Tuncellito - 1 C-123 a/c and 1 C130 are on the runway at Qui Nhon to lift two Abn Ranger companies from Qui Nhon to Pleiku.

- 15:05H: Maj Esterling - II Corps - Nothing more on Plei My at this time.

- 15:45H: II Corps Capt Neary - USSF G2 Est. 2 VC Bn vic Plei My. Based on pattern of previous attacks it is probable that the PAVN 32d Regt or 95th Regt may be involved. The fact that they continue to hold position during daylight and in face of air strikes indicates that it is not a local unit. TAC air drop of ammo at 1530H. VC have rec'd following air strikes: As of 1515 22 A1E, 10 B57, 18 F100, 1 F4B, total of 51 sorties.

- 16:10H: II Corps (Capt Neary) - JGS made available to II Corps 18 VNAF H-34's due to arrive II Corps between 1600 - 1630.

- 16:20H: II Corps Lt Williams - Is II Corps sending any troops to Plei My. Ans: No, not at present. 1 Ranger Bn alerted to move.

- 16:50H: II Corps (D/S II Corps). G3 to D/SA II Corps. If TF Ingram is delayed, one Bn can be moved to Pleiku tomorrow providing weather permits. Is this wanted? from D/SA to G3. A/1 and 119th Air Mob Co's enroute to Bong Son. CG II Corps plans Than Phong 6 to go as scheduled, relief of Plei Me 2d priority. He will move force overland to relieve camp.

- 17:02H: II Corps Lt Williams - HQ FFV desires to know: Ref action to the south of Pleiku. What units are moving, how far have they gone. (Note: Put in KAC code)

- 17:50H: II Corps (Sgt Ubelhor) - At 1630, on last air strike. FAC told a/c to bomb and straff along outside edge of wire surrounding camp. VC were at the wire. II Corps is trying to get more info from SF. (Info fm monitoring radio) (From Capt Franklin: They have been shooting VC at the wire on occasion all afternoon, according to some of the FAC's)

- 18:25H: II Corps Capt Ushijima - Possibility of placing an Abn Ranger Co vic Plei My tonight. Col Bennett was told by SA II Corps, that the a/c would not be available until after 1900 and airlift impossible tonight. Col Bennett then requested 10 Americans be introduced into Camp to assist control of CIDG. Col Mataxis (SA II Corps) replied that due to tactical situation this could not be done. 18 VNAF H-34's were cancelled. It was apparently a false report. ZA 160050 is correct coord for Plei My. Abn Ranger Co discussed is one of the two Delta elems under SF control. They are in Pleiku.

- 19:00H: MACV (Col Rainey) - Who are the 50 US which were mentioned in the request for air transportation. Ans: Project Delta.

- 20:00H: 5th SF Capt McGrover - 2000H sporadic mortar and SA. No reinforcement tonight. Flareships and fighter a/c allnight. Radio three aerial relay 1830 air resupply 1/2 destroyed 1/2 ok. (1/2 landed outside resupply drop area) Resupply from Pleiku and from LSC tonight. Team leader in camp. 4 units out of camp. Est 2 VC Bn's plus.

- 20:00H: Fm D/SA II Corps to Lt Col Patch. SA II Corps had just returned fm flight over Plei My Camp. Camp still holding out. Flare ships and fighters still supporting. A/1 Avn Co returned to Pleiku, because of weather. Request of Lt Col Bennett, 5th SFG, to move 10 US into camp denied. KAC msg reads. Armored forces: 3d Armored HQ, 21st Ranger Bn, 3/5 Tank Co; 2/6th Armored Inf Co departed fm AR 780480 and will proceed to AR 765274 tonight and set up blocking positions, will proceed tomorrow. 2 Abn Ranger Co's assit tomorrow.

- 22:20H: II Corps Adv (Sgt Albreago) 41 Regt, CP 962784; Mar TFA CP 863754; 1st Mar Bn 874765; 4th Mar Bn 862756; Abn Bde CP 819886; 3 Abn Bn, 819886; 8 Abn Bn 819886; 5 Abn Bn, Bong Son; 6 Abn Bn, 819886; 7 Abn Bn, Bong Son; 4 Abn Bn, Phu My.

- 22:45H: From Col Barrow (Info fm Gen Larsen thru Gen Smith): TF Ingram is not to move from its present location to its planned destination (Ref: Than Phong 6). It will remain in place prepared to assist Condor. (II corps Advisory Gp). This includes its associated airlift (fixed wing and Chinooks). Pass to 1st Cav.

- 24:00H: Summary of activities for period 200001H to 202400H Oct 65. Intelligence Summary: 191900H Plei My SF Camp under attack, flare ship and fighters sent. (...) II Corps reported UH-1B shot down at 1030H at Plei My Camp, no survivors; 1 B-57 crashed due to heavy ground fire at 1030H. Approx 1030H 2d B-57 landed near Pleiku due to hits received at Plei My. Crew recovered. Est 2 VC Bns in Plei My vicinity. Camp receiving pressure from North and East. Plei My receiving 57RR fire at 1320H. Results: 17 CIDG WIA, 3 CIDG KIA, 1 USSF KIA, 1 USSF WIA. (...) At 202000H Plei My SF Camp under mortar and SA fire. From 310th Air Commando Sqdn (Lt Col McLaughlin): 2 C-123's received hits in Plei My air resupply drop. 5 hits at 1530H. .30 cal and SA fire. 2d aircraft received 15 rds .50 cal and .30 cal fire at 1830H. Aircraft deadlined due to engine failure from ground fire.

- 24:00H: Operations Summary: II Corps: SF Camp at Plei My has been under attack since 191945H by est 30-40 VC using mortar and SA; 1 US WIA, 2 CIDG WIA. SF Camp at ZA 146764. At 0030 est 2 VC Co's attacking Plei My with 81m mortars and 1 57mm rifle. At 0630H casualty report was 7 WIA, 1 US WIA. Plei My being fired upon from North and South. At 0730H 10 A1E's and 2 B-57's, 5 F-100's in area. At 0830H Plei My lost resupply of ammo, air drop outside perimeter. At 1000H est 1 VC Bn attacking Plei My. Casualties: 3 KIA, 9 WIA. At 0950H armed HU-1B shot down, no believed to have survivors; crew of 4. At 1030H 1 B-57 crashed as a result of heavy ground fire, crew bailed out, have been recovered, B-57 secure. At 1030, B-57 landed Pleiku result of heavy ground fire. ARVN reports 2 VC Bn in area. At 1235H II Corps requested airlift for two Ranger Abn Co's. 2 Ranger Co's alerted for pick up Qui Nhon at 1330H. 1 C-130 and 1 C-123 aircraft on runway QNH to pick up rangers. Casualty figures at 1320 hrs: 17 CIDG WIA, 3 CIDG KIA, 1 USSF WIA, 1 USSF KIA. USSF G-2 Estimate - 2 VC Bns vic Plei My probably PAVN, 32 Regt or 95th Regt. As of 1515H, air strikes have been as follows: 22 A1E, 10 B-57, 18 VNAF H-34's, due to arrive II Corps 1600-1630 hrs. CG II Corps plans Than Phong 6 to go as scheduled; relief of Plei My second priority. He is moving 3d Armd Cav HQ, 21st Ranger Bn, 3/5 Tank Co; 2/6 Armd Inf Co departed Pleiku and is setting to road blocking position vic AR 765274, will proceed on 21 Oct. Also 2 Ranger Co's will assist on 21 Oct. Gen Larsen cancelled participation of TF Ingram in Than Phong 6 as of 202300H, includes airlift support will be prepared to assist relief of Plei My Camp on 21 Oct.

21 October 1965

- 00:35H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) 1445H, US body recovered from outside camp; 1430H, 50-60 personnel CIDG on the wall, unknown number inside bnker inside camp refuse to fight; 1830H, 81mm mortar ammo air drop; 1930H, resupply CV-2 all inside camp; 1930H, est 200 CIDG in camp; 2 A1E's up. 2 flares in sky all the time, all remains quiet.

- 01:05H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) A Co, 1st Avn Bn will lift 2 Abn Ranger Co's beginning 210825H and ending 1010H. 2 lifts are planned, prestrike planned LZ vic ZA 175085. Units remain (see item #76, 20 Oct log) at blocking positions as reaction force. At 210800H one company 22d Ranger Bn will be at airstrip ready to be lifted into zone of action if needed. 22d Ranger Bn (-) in reserve vic Pleiku. 1 Bn 1st Air Cav alerted for possible movement to Pleiku.

- 01:30H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) Followup on Plei My: latest casualties: USSF: 1 KIA, 3 WIA, US KIA in helicopter - 4. CIDG, 7 KIA, 17 WIA. Phu Nhon district reported VC Bn crossing Hwy 14 from E to W vic AR 870102 at 2020000 hrs. Moving in direction of Plei My.

- 02:28H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) A Co, 1st Avn Bn, AQ 820045, rec'd harassing SA fire 0200-0205. No frd casualties. Situation under control. Fire was described as sporadic AW fire fm 3 locations near airfield. VC cas unknown.

- 04:20H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) No change in II Corps situation. No contact at Plei My at this time. Flare ship and TAC air still in area.

- 06:50H: II Corps (Lt Williams) 0230, camp probed, repulsed by air strike. 0430, heavy mortar positions. 0450, SA fire increasing along south edge of runway.

- 07:50H: II Corps (Maj Ushijima) - Gun ship that had tail rutter failure, crashed and burned. No survivors 5 on board. Chopper belonged to A Co, 1st Bn.

- 08:20H: II Corps Capt Ushijima - Who if anyone at Pleiku can make a Cmd decision if necessary in Vinh Loc's absence? Request you stay on top of Than Phong 6, Plei My and route 21 Opns and ensure timely and accurate info forwarded this HQ. Asn: Chief of Staff is here and has contat w/CG on coast. Question: Can CofS make a decision. Ans: He will have to check w/CG before making a decision.

- 08:25H: FFV Adv Maj Mobley - Adv informed that 2/12 Cav cancelled out of Than Phong 6. 1st Cav alerted possible committment vic Pleiku.

-09:05H: Fm II Corps - 2 lifts of Abn Ranger into LZ at 0820 and 0853 with no opposition. 3d lift planned in at 1000. Between 0730 and 0800, Plei Me drawing SA fire fm north, a hill. Air is to attempt to neutralize.

- 10:00H: Msg, CG to DSA II Corps - Any of 3 circumstances would result in committment of Cav Bn to Pleiku. Pleiku reserve, a Ranger Bn is pulled out to reinforce. It appears if Pleiku in danger of atk. If weather conditions such that Cav Bn must be moved out before An Khe, Pleiku or area in between is nonflyable.

- 10:10H: II corps - Ref Plei My - Camp receiving SA fire at 0815, no mortars. No info on the direction of fire or which direction the main pressure in the camp is coming from. 0820 1st lift. 0855 2d lift. 160 trps on ground, neg contact. LZ loc at ZA 18708. Third lift is due to go now, (201010). 1100 II Corps - third lift LZ 1010 hrs, no contact.

- 10:20H: Msg to II Corps - what is status of 3d Armored Cav and Ranger Bn. Ans: They are still in blocking position where they spent last night. Question: When will they move. Ans: Depends on outcome of lift of 2 Ranger Co's. Ref TAOR's - CG II Corps has approved TAOR, with stipulation. Letter will be hand carried to FFV today.

- 11:15H: Fm L/Col Buchan (G3 1st Cav) - Reaction time for TF Ingram to close in Pleiku is 4 hrs due to having to shuttle by CV-2. After 1400 hrs time can be reduced to 2 hrs due to return of a/c assets fm TF Amos. 1st Cav has a weather ship up vic Mang Yang pass 100% of time keeping close watch on weather developments there. Weather flyable now.

- 11:40H: Msg fm II Corps, Col Williams - 2 LLDB Co's are on ground. Have contact w/enemy, should close in Plei My camp in 30 minutes. Cav RF is moving and is in contact. II Corps Cmdr is considering committing 22d Ranger Bn.

- 11:45H: Fm Maj Mobley FFV Adv - About 30 minutes ago Gen Larsen in a discussion with Gen Vinh Loc, decided that they would not commit the Ranger Bn now at Pku in reaction against VC vic Plei Me at this time. Because the unit, Bn vic Plei Me is in a strong enough position to hold. The 1st Air Cav Bn will hold in position until Ranger Bn is moved out of Pleiku. No change in 1st Air Cav status at this time. Decision subj to change. Gen Larsen desires Gen Smith be advised of this decision.

- 12:50H: FFV Adv Maj Mobley - Current locations of Abn Bns (as of 1200): 3d Bn BR 795835 and BR 810806. 6th Bn BR 781849. 7th Bn 815845. 5th and 8th Bns still in LZ (BR 751818).

- 13:30H: II Corps (Capt Franklin) - Ref Plei My - Abn Co's vic camp but still outside. Cav units are still moving. They were vic ZA 2020 as of 1230. Camp still under SA fire. No other contacts reported at this time.

- 14:00H: II Corps Sgt Ubelhor - spot report - Ref Plei My time 1350H. The air landed unit was within 1 Kil of their obj. No contact. 1 Casualtie not due to enemy action. He broke his arm.

- 14:04H: 1st Cav Maj McElroy - Eff 211400 hrs TF Ingram is Div reserve and FFV reaction force. A & D of 2/8 closed Bde forward base at 1345 hrs.

- 15:00H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Reported sporadic firing on Plei My at 1500 hrs. Ref air lifted unit: They are approx 1 Km fm destination. Hwy 21 - No contact, convoy that started 1100 still in progress. No other significant activity to report.

- 15:15H: II Corps Sgt Ubelhor - At 1410 hrs, APC unit hit mine vic ZA 205216. No damage, no casualties.

- 15:30H: II Corps Sgt Ubelhor - 0640H Cct vic AR 780290 rear rotor blade malfunctioned. Crew of 4 killed, UH1B crashed and burned.

- Delayed entry: 15:45H - MACV Sgt Galimore - Ref question concerning mission of gunship shot down this AM vic Plei My: Aircraft was supporting opn Plei My, by attempting to secure LZ. Aircraft shot down vic AR 780290.

- 16:20H: II Corps Sgt Lakin - Ref UH1B crashed and burned 210640 at AR 780290. All bodies were recovered. Craft will not be salvaged. Not enought of it left.

- 16:50H: 5th SF Gp (Sgt/Maj Brandor Opn Sgt) The relief force has not arrived at Plei My camp as of 1615 hrs also med evac has not been effected.

- 18:25H: II Corps Capt Beasley - Ref Plei My - Fm USSF: At 1810, SA fire cont, air strike in progress. Relief force has not closed at camp. 1 CIDG to be med evac.

- 20:35H: II Corps Lt Williams - Plei My - 2020H rec'd SA fire 50 cal + 81mm mortar fm south west of camp. Flare ships and air strikes in opn. Companies not in camp. Loc 700 meters north of camp. Resupply mission was effected, successfully 1950H.

- 22:00H: II Corps Relief Column at ZA 198200 at 1615 hrs. Resupply since 1950H not successful due to heavy ground fire. Med evac cancelled at 1858 hrs.

- 24:00H: Operations Summary: II Corps: 2 Abn Ranger Co's scheduled to be airlifted at 210825 for Plei My. A prestrike is planned for ZA 175085 (LZ) at 0130, cas figures were: USSF 1 KIA, 3 WIA, 4 US KIA in helicopter crash. CIDG: 7 KIA, 17 WIA. At 0640H a gunship, in support of Plei My was shot down. In opn Than Phong 6 lead elem of Abn TF crossed LD vic Bong Son on 200645 hrs, main elem followed at 0850 hrs. Plei My: 2 Abn Ranger Co's closed LZ 0855 with two airlifts, no opposition, a third is scheduled for 1000 hrs. LZ at ZA 187083. Third lift closed LZ at 1010 hrs. At 1230 ARVN Cav elements heading for Plei My in vic ZA 2020, no contact reported. At 1350 hrs Abn elements within 1 KM of their obj, no contact. II Corps reports. Sporadic firing reported at Plei My at 1500H. At 1410H, APC hit mine vic ZA 205216. No damage. No casualties. At 0640H a HU1B crashed and burned vic AR 780290 as result of rear rotor blade malfunction. Bodies were recovered, aircraft not salvageable. II Corps reported VC defector stated 101st VC moved f rom Kontum area to Quang Duc area. At 1810 SA fire continued at Plei Me. Air strike was in progress. At 2020H SA, 50 cal. and 81mm mortar fire was received from SW of camp. Resupply was effected at 1950H. At 2045H camp reported light SA fire.

- 24:00H: Intelligence Summary: Plei My SF Camp: 210130H Oct Frd Cas 1 USSF KIA, 3 WIA, 4 US KIA resulting from helicopter crash, CIDG 7 KIA, 17 WIA. 210420 Oct no contact. 21064H Oct UH1B crashed and burned vic AR 780290. Crew of four KIA. Bodies recovered. Tail rotor blade malfunctioned. Cause of malfunction Unk. Plei My: 2020H rec'd SA, 50 cal and 81 mm mortar fire. Resupply effected 1950H, 2045H light SA fire. Flare ship and air strikes in operation.

22 October 1965

- 01:50H: II Corps (Lt Williams) A1E shot down at 0135H over Plei Me. Are trying to establish contact with pilot. They think he is alive.

- 03:40H: II Corps - ref downed A1E - pilot has commo with camp. Patrol is out looking for him.

- 04:00H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Plei Me is under heaviest attack incurred today. Receiving SA fire, .50 cal fire, and 81mm mortar fire.

- 04:40H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Captured weapons at Plei Me: 1 81mm mortar, 1 30 cal MG, 3 Russian type weapons, and 1 light MG.

- 06:05H: II Corps - Plei Me is all quiet, fire subsided as of 0530H. Patrol still looking for downed A1E pilot.

- 06:35H: II Corps - As of 0600 Plei Me Camp is quiet. Contact has been lost with A1E pilot 300m from camp. Ranger Co's still 700-1200m north of Plei Me. Exact location of Cav units not known.

- 07:30H: II Corps - Msg: 3d Cav unit in support of Plei My, is loc at ZA 205215. Msg: All is quiet at the camp. The pilot downed last night is still out.

- 08:50H: Lt Col Buchan, G3 1st Cav called to report that weather at An Khe was 0-0. He also stated that Gen Larsen told 1st Cav ADC on 21 Oct that TF Ingram (FFV Reserve) was on normal 3 hr reaction time per LOI. (Lt Col Patch).

- 08:30H: Chang is loc of TF. a/c ref Plei My, ZA 236255. II Corps Capt Ushijima.

- 09:00H: II Corps Capt Beasley - Some elements (the point) of the Abn Ranger Co's are now in Plei My. The main body has not closed yet. The resupply drop at 220440 was successful. The pilot that ejected from the A1E have radio contact and know his location. A patrol departed his location. A patrol departed Plei My 0807 to pick him up.

- 09:30H: Msg fm Col Williams II Corps to Col Barrow FFV. Plei My rec'd sporadic fire all during evenings of 21-22 Oct. A patrol was dispatched fm camp to effect linkup with 2 Ranger Co's. Linkup was not effected. However several wpns were captured (see item 13) which leaves impression that air strike did some damage. Status of Co is good. Plan for future dispatch patrols from camp to see if contact can be established, if so, to pursue enemy if feasible.

- 10:00H: Msg fm FFV - 2 Abn bns Bong Son have not been lifted as yet due to weather.

- 11:15H: II Corps Capt Ushijima - Ref Cas figures Plei My. 1 USSF KIA, 5 CIDG KIA, 1 USSF WIA, 14 CIDG WIA, 1 US press reporter WIA. Med evac in progress. Attempt to rescue pilot still in progress. 2/H34's with 2 guns have departed and are on the way to Plei My.

- Delayed entry: II Corps Sgt Ubelhor - Msg At 1030 one A1E shot down south of Plei My camp. Pilot recovered. Shot down by AW fire.

- 13:30H: II Corps Ubelhor - Ref med evac for Plei My 2d ship an H34 chopper rec'd 10 rds SA fire through tail of aircraft. 1 US SF med fm Delta team killed in a/c, died at C detachment compound at Pleiku. Time 1315H.

- 16:35H: II Corps (Lt Williams) - 2 Abn Bns not airlifted. Armd Cav still on blocking psn (over 24 hrs now).

- Delayed entry 15:45H: Plei My. Still receiving sporadic small arms fire. Patrol still looking for 2d A1E pilot. Intell Sum Plei My as of 221500 Oct. Available info indicates that elems of a PAVN Regt, as yet unidentified are involved. At most, only one Bn has been involved in the actual atk. Two attempts to penetrate the wire have been reported. But neither verified. The first occured on night of 20 Oct when a squad size unit reportedly blew down the main gate with a satchel charge. The second occured on morning of 21 October when an est squad (12 men) rushed the wire but were stopped by straffing and naplam from 2 A1E's. There are no bodies in the wire. An unk number of 81mm mortar rds have been fired at the camp by VC and fm 80 to 100 dud 81mm rds have been collected thus far. All of these are of US manufacture. At least (1) 57m RR is known to be in use by the VC and one or more 50 cal MG's have been reported. In addition to one 81mm mortar frd forces have captured one 30 cal MG, 2 AK assault rifles and 1 SKS carbine. There is as yet no count of VC casualties. However, in view of the VC tenacity his casualties are estimated at from moderate to heavy primarily from air strikes.

- 17:25H: II Corps (Col Williams) - Rpt as of 1700 (Plei My) Abn Rng Co's on a sweep in grid Sq North of Plei My camp (800 meters) heavily engaged. 1 US KIA, 1 US WIA, heavy Vn cas. US Off w/Gp thinks they can hold out tonight (Maj Beckworth). details will follow.

- 17:50H: CG called CofS sometime prior to 1700. Than Phong 6 will terminate tomorrow. TF Amos will be extracted tomorrow. TF Ingram is to move during early morning hrs to Pleiku.

- 18:30H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) - Report from II Corps DSA that a FAC made radio contact, the A1E pilot shot down at 220100H Oct. Air cover over head, exact status of recovery effort is unk. (Ref log item 4).

- 20:20H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) - Ref Plei My: a med evac heli attempted to pick up a downed air force pilot A1E was forced back by intense ground fire. A1E a/c attempted to silence En pos but was not successful. At 1935H the attempt to get pilot out was cancelled for the night. The FAC was unable to sight the pilot but saw his strobe light. Recovery attempt tomorrow morning. Pilot's position is unk at this time.

- 21:00H: II Corps - Chinese officer killed. (not confirmed). Confirmed that enemy are chained to their machine guns. Ref action at Plei My.

- 21:10H: For your info, Gen Westmoreland called at 2045 for info on Plei My and Quang Duc atk.

- 22:00H: MACV Sgt Hicks - Ref Plei My (Encoded) LLDB Report: US 2 Capt KIA, 1 Capt WIA. LLDB - 14 KIA, 26 WIA. CIDG - 4 KIA, 17 WIA. Ranger Co's returned to camp, 9 KIA not recovered.

- 24:00H: Intelligence Summary for period 220001 to 222400H Oct 65. 0135H A1E a/c shotdown over Plei My, last report pilot alive not recovered. 0400 Plei My under heavy 50 cal, and 81mm mortar fire. Plei My frd captured 1 81mm mortar, .30 cal MG, 3 Russian type wpns. 1 light MG. 1020H Plei Me 1 A1E shotdown with AW, pilot recovered. Plei My approx 1300H H-34 a/c rec'd 10 rds hit in tail. 1 USSF med fm Delta team killed. One reporter WIA. Both personnel evac to Pleiku. 1430H reporter evac to 8th field Nha Trang. Eye wound. Est 80 - 100 81mm dud mortar rds collected of US manufacture. (1) 57RR 1 or more 50 cal MG rpt used by VC. Plei My - Recovery of downed pilot cancelled until 23 Oct, due to intense ground fire. Strobe light seen. Confirmed that enemy are chained to their machine guns.

- 24:00H: Operations Summary: TF Amos will be extracted from Than Phong 6 tomorrow. TF Ingram (2/12 Cav) moves to Pleiku early morning hours 23 Oct. Activity at Plei Me remained relatively quiet during the day until about 1700H. 3 Cav TF remained north of the camp vic ZA 205212. Abn Ranger Companies moved into camp about 0900H. Later in day, the Ranger Co's conducted a sweep north of the camp. At about 1700H they became heavily engaged. Results, 2 US KIA, 1 US WIA, 14 Ranger KIA, 26 Ranger WIA. VC cas unknown. Ranger companies returned to camp by 2200H. Attempts to extract downed A1E pilot failed. Will try again tomorrow.

23 October 1965

- 01:15H: Msg from MACV (Maj Kirby) Aircraft for lift of 1/42 from Kontum to Pleiku is approved. II Corps notified G4 notified.

- 01:30H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) at 0110 light 81mm mortar fire in Plei Me Camp, fire ship over head air strike continues.

- 03:00H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) casualty report: Frd: KIA: 3 USSF, 10 VN, 15 CIDG. WIA: 3 USSF, 40 VN, 30 CIDG. MIA: 10. EN: 35 VC (BC). 81mm mortar H & I fire of Plei Me continues. There are 10 liter patients to be evacuated.

- 05:45H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) Plei Me still receiving 81mm mortar fire of harrassing type. Camp returning sniper fire.

- 06:00H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) Plei Me reported light SA and mortar fire. Ranger Companies still in compound. Cav TF still in blocking position patrolling in area. Latest Cas fig.: USSF 3 KIA, 3 WIA, 1 US Reporter WIA (evacuated), 8 Army Aviation KIA, 15 CIDG KIA - 10 VN Delta KIA, 30-40 CIDG Delta Team WIA, 35 VC KIA. 2 A1E's shotdown, 2 choppers - 1 ground fire one mec trouble. 1 B57 shotdown, 1 B57 damaged, 1 Caribou 4 hits, 4 C123 rec hits, 1 chopper rec hits. Equip captured: 81mm mortar 3 50 Cal MG's, 5 30 Cal MG's 50 SMG's, 3 Soviet rifles.

- 10:50H: FM 1st Cav (Capt Brady) Major elements 2/12 at Pleiku (camp Holloway) closed at 0915H

- 11:00H: CG to OPNS Officer, FFV - (Maj Turner) CG told Gen Kinnard at 0900 this morning to keep TF Amos in Than Phong 6 area as long as necessary to support Abn as they have contact (from Ben Lang) with elements of 18 PAVN Regt and desire to exploit. It is CG, 1st Air Cav's decision when to withdraw TF Amos. TF Ingram can expect commitment to Plei Me zone if situation dictates. If TF Ingram is committed to Plei Me, 1st Air Cav must provide a Bn TF at Pleiku. If this is done, OPN "Buster" will have to be slipped.

- 11:00H: MACV J2 - would like pictures of the people who were reported chained to MG. If pictures can't be obtained, they want details of how the info was obtained. Relayed to II Corps.

- 12:00H: II Corps (Capt Whiger) Plei Me - the A1E pilot downed in early morning hrs of 22nd was rescued by Med evac outside the camp approx 231130H.

- 12:25H: TF Ingram major elements arrived at 0915H.

- 12:35H: FFV Adv (Maley) - Main elem of TF Ingram closed at 0915.

- 12:35H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Correction: it was not a Med evac heli that picked up pilot. It was air force rescue heli.

- Late entry: Msg from MACVCC (Sgt Frels) - MACV J2 would like pictures of all personnel chained to MG. If this is not possible request all available info on this subject. II Corps notified (Maj Easter).

- 14:00H: II Corps - MACV (Sgt Bradly) Re: Plei Me - sporadic SA fire in camp area. All critically wounded have been Med evac. At 0910 had a successful supply drop at the camp.

- 14:00H: 1st Cav SITREP: TF Ingram closed (major elements) at 0915H.

- 14:30H: II Corps (Sgt Ubelhor) 1/42 at Pleiku awaiting more by chopper to LZ - haven't opt yet. Where is Ranger Bn? Supposed to leave at 1330 - don't know yet whether gone or not.

- 14:50H: G2 TOC Report (Maj Henry) Unit identified at Plei Me SF Camp - D-520 PAVN Regt.

- 14:50H: Fm 5th SF (Capt McGroven) 230600-1355 all quiet, 0911 rec'd Air drop 100%, 1200 1st A1E pilot recovered taken to Pleiku is OK . Air drop rec'd, 1325 Rngr OPN to ZA 164061 encountered VC Fanatically dug in and being killed rather than leave position Rngr unit RIC camp & rqst napalm air strike, 1400 Rec'd 81 mort fire in camp 5 CIDG WIA.

- 15:50H: General Larsen has approved the move of another Bn from 1st Air Cav Div to move to Pleiku ETD 1600 to close before dark. Request passed from II Corps SA, to CG 1st Air Cav to Gen Smith to Gen Larsen. Approved given to CG, 1st Air Cav Div through Gen Smith.

- 16:00H: 1/42 Bn is moving from Pleiku to join Cav RF at Plei Me (Re: Maj Murray).

- 16:10H: 1st Cav - 1st Bde w/2/8 Cav and 2/19 (-) Arty, 1 btry will displace to Pku and assume control of TF Ingram. Force will then be TF Scorpion. Will advise when movement commences.

- 18:00H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) 5 CIDG wounded by mortar fire 1330H. 1 VND KIA, 2 WIA at 1316H while on patrol outside camp. 1 USSF WIA 1850H. Total: KIA: 3 USSF, 6 CIDG, 4 VND WIA, 3 USSF, 11 CIDG, 31 VND. 12 wounded evac at 1630 by med evac. At 1550H Plei Me rec'd air drop. All recovered. A VN village vic ZA 156153 strafed by gunships. Huts burning unk 1 VN wounded. Med evac on way to village.

- 18:15H: II Corps (Sgt Minney) At 1820H Pleiku Sector reported 3d Armd Cav TF in contact with VC, vic ZA 1717. 3 vehicles hit. Air support on the way.

- 18:35H: II Corps (Sgt Ubelhor) Ref spot report on Cav unit N Pleiku: Report rec'd that 4 trucks are burning there now. (Total of 8 vehicles, APC's and trucks are burning and exploding). (Reports coming from DASC)

- 19:10H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Dan Thang 21 (Plei Me) Ground situation unk. flare ship overhead. Command and control ship overhead, radio relay ship up and another on standby.

- 19:45H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Plei Me under attack as of 1940. (WP fired by mortar). No other info available at this time.

- 19:45H: Msg, subj: Exchange of Operational Information, to 1st Cav and II Corps DSA, taken to G3 Admin for dispatch.

- 20:25H: II Corps (Maj Black) Requested info on activities of frd unit at time contact N of Plei Me was made. Maj Black informed TOC that units were on a planned opn. TWX was sent FFV with details. (Cite # and DTG not available to Maj Black at this time).

- 21:25H: II Corps (Maj Black) Requested latest info on action N of Plei Me, and info on opn underway when contact was made: Est 30 frd casualties, type breakdown unk at this time. Units still in contact. Camp is still receiving some sporadic mortar fire. Units involved in planned opn today: 1/42, 1 Ranger Bn and 3 Armd Cav Task Force moved S on road toward Plei Me. Another Ranger Bn was airlifted to an LZ approx 1K down the road and 2K's W of coord where contact was made about 1800. Reports of action are not clear. Advisors on the ground will fwd clear details as to extent of contact as soon as they can get a clear picture. It appears now that the element on the road moved through a VC force and was hit at the rear.

- 21:30H: MACV (Sgt Glennon) Additional info on Plei Me action vic ZA 1717 forward (summary of items # 79 & 84).

- 23:00H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Encoded - Ref Dan Thang 21: Unit locations: 21st Rangers, ZA 204210; 22d Rangers, ZA 145156; 2/6 APC, ZA 175165; 3/5, neg report; 1/42, ZA 185185. Captured following wpns: 1 57mm RR, 1 BAR, 1 AK assault rifle. 32 frd WIA.

- 23:00H: II Corps (Maj Easterling) Request for info on situation N of Plei Me. There is nothing more to report at this time.

- 23:50H: G3, Col Barrow - at approx 2300 CG rec'd call from Col Mataxis and Gen Knowles was with him. Based on info they passed to CG, CG approved commitment tomorrow of all or part of 1st Bde (PKU) at Gen Knowles's discretion. Gen Kinnard was with Gen Larsen. This info passed to Gen Knowles and Col Mataxis at approx 2315.

24 October 1965

- 00:30H: 1 Bde and 2/8 in process of move to Pleiku 2/3 closed.

- 01:35H: II Corps (Lt Williams) Dan Thang 21 most of Village vic ZA 156153 destroyed by air. Mortar & 50 Cal M6 believed to be saved Ground force believed 50 Cal MG is located ZA 162168. Direction of SA fire believed to be from the east/NE and SW into Plei Me camp at 23200H.

- 02:00H: Msg fm MACV (Sgt Kilpatrect) Ref: Plei Me what are plans for today. Include units and location.

- 05:05H: II CTZ TOC (Lt Williams) Ref: Armored Cav troop at Plei Me broke contact w/VC at 0400H. According to interrogation of VC contact was made with 8th Co 1st Bn, 2d PAVN Regt. Comment: may be new VC unit.

(...)

- 10:15H: Passed to 1st Cav Maj Spence. 2/12 LNO II Corps, Lt Rice 2 Inf Co's and arty Btry fm TF Ingram at ZA 235254 on and at 0756 - awaiting instruction from Gen Knowles.

- 10:20H: II Corps Lt Col Patch, 1 Btry and 2 Inf Co's moved into support range of ARVN in GS/R role.

- 12:20H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Wrap up on ammo Relief Column. 2 hows which were ovverrun have been recovered and are with 21st Rngs although damaged & not able to be fired The colum have not moved appreciary. But is regrouping and evacuating dead & wounded. Cas through 1100 today: 30 KIA, 60 WIA (est). Column has been engaged twice since ambush last evening. At approx 0330, VC attk with AW & SA for 30-40 mins. 0400 to 0940 all quiet. 0940 receiving SA fire. Cas include 3 engagements. No US cas reported. All units regrouping now.

- 13:00H: II Corps (Duty NGC) 1th and 4th Mar Bn will move by air from Qui Nhon to Pleiku, 25 Oct 65.

- 13:00H: II Corps (duty NCO) - 3rd Troop 5th Sqd at ZA 180180. 21st Rang at ZA 1717 as of 1100H regrouping.

- 14:20H: MACV (Sgt Bradley) - gave him complete Wrap Up on activity as of this time on Plei Me. Relief force and US spt of this force.

- 15:30H: II Corps (Lt Col Anderson) - POW cap in ambush site north of Plei Me night of 23-24 Oct is an aid man from the 966th Bn, 32d Regt. Stated that 6 days ago they moved fm the Chu Pong Base area, SW of Plei Me, and have been at the ambush site for 48 hrs. The whole Rgt was at the ambush site. They had very heavy cas fr tank fire and air and his Bn was nearly wiped out. They were already in bad shape due to sickness and hunger. The prisoner has malaria. They broke contact and are heading back to the base area at Chu Pong. When asked if he knew about the unit attacking Plei Me, he had no knowledge of it and stated his unit was ordered to ambush the site to reinforce a victory. It is believed that if they take their wounded that they could reach the Chu Pong area in approx 3 days, if they abandon them or hide them it would be much sooner. II Corps is following the situation.

- 16:05H: II Corps (Maj Jesell) 1400H is latest rpt fm Plei Me. Harassing SA and mort fire still being received. Doc Cap may be flown out this afternoon - thus far no flites in. Upon inquiry as to whether the PW cap in the ambush knew the unit embark at Plei Me. Maj Jesell stated PW did not know about the attack on Plei Me. He stated that his regt the 32nd PAVN was committed to embark the ambush. They were ordered to the site to reinforce a victory. They were on the site 48H prior to the actual action. PW is very sick from malaria and interrogation becoming difficult.

- 16:15H: FFV G2 (Maj Mitchell) To: Capt Neary II Corps. This Hqs has arranged for SLAR miss to be flown over suspected rte being utilized by Regt (PAVN) in its return to Chu Pong base area, from ambush N of Plei Me.

- 16:35H: 5th SF - Plei Me - 1058 - Med evac took place for wounded only. 1340 - Air Strike with no damage assessment. 1505 - air resupply 100% successful. 1515 - Rec 81mm mort rds. 1600 - still rec harrasing SA and mort fire.

- 19:30H: II Corps (Capt Beasley) Psy War A/C leaf Uniform 17 going to Plei Me for 2 hrs w/drop leaflets and make broadcast. USSF: 3 KIA, 3 WIA. US Heli Crew: 8 KIA, US Reporter 1 KIA. Total US: 12 KIA, 3 WIA, VN Delta Rngrs: 3 KIA, 29 WIA, CIDG: 6 KIA, 11 WIA, 32 MIA. Armd Cav TF: 22 KIA, 36 WIA. 21st Rngr: 29 KIA, 22 WIA. 1/42: 16 WIA. Total: 60 KIA, 114 WIA, 32 MIA.

- 20:30H: Advised MACV CG that action involving 3d Armd Cav on 23 Oct was not an ambush. Action classified as meeting engagement.

- 22:30H: Col Lewis MACV CC - Called requesting a report passed at 2020 that a reporter had been KIA vic Pleiku. Report believed erronous. II Corps checking MACV so advised.

- 23:00H: II Corps Plei Me Rec'd heavy mortar fire as of 2135 hrs. Rds US manufacture (1944) HE heavy type M-34 lot number WC 1524.

- 23:20H: Plei Me receiving heavy mortar fire as of 2135. Rds US manufactured. 1944, HE heavy type M34. Lot no WC 1524. No air drop at camp due to high wind.

- 24:00H: Intelligence Summary for period 240001 to 242400H Oct 65. 0400H Armd Cav at Plei My broke contact w/VC. According to interrogation of VC contact was made w/8th Co 1st Bn 2d PAVN Regt. Comment: May be new VC unit. 0330 - VC atk w/AW and SA for 30-40 min. 1400H - Plei My rec harassing fire (SA and mortar). 1600 - Still rec harassing SA and mortar fire.

- Delayed entry 23:10H: II Corps Capt Franklin - Unit loc as of 241800H. 3d Armd and 22d Ranger Bn coord 175165. 21st Ranger Bn 170175. 2 Co's 2/8 Int and 1 Co Arty coord 208123. 2 Co's 2/12 Inf and 1 Co 2/19 Arty coord 202200. There have been 2 TAOR's approval for 1st Bde. TAOR #1: Coord 1824/2428/1818. TAOR #2: Coord 1015/7715/7709/2009. Tomorrow 22d Ranger Bn heliborne to LZ coord 185105. Time to be determined after this comes off.

25 October 1965

- 00:37H: 1st Cav Maj Henderson - Opn Dan Thang 21 starts 1000H. A,C 2/8 Cav continues to secure B, 2/19 arty. B 2/8 Cav in forward pos. B,C 2/12 Cav continues securing B, 2/17 arty. B 2/17 arty and B 2/19 arty are conducting H and I fires. 2/17 arty loc ZA 204205. 2/8 Cav and 2/12 Cav CP is forward. B and C 2/12 Cav loc ZA 204205. B 2/8 Cav and A 2/12 Cav are forward. Neg 157 report.

- 04:05H: II Corps Capt Beasley - sitrep - Ref Plei Me all quiet, no activity, time 250130. Flare ship remains overhead. Air strikes were shifted to other targets away fm camp but remain within a couple miles of camp. C-47 puff 242030 -250030. No results.

- (...)

(...) 15 Carbine US make, 1 81mm Mort, 7 Russian rifle, 2 shoulder AA wpns, 1 30 cal Barrel (US) 2 30 cal Barrels (Chinese) 4 Sub MG (K-50), 1 AR Chinese, 2 Bar (US), 3 50 cal (US), 1 83mm Tripod, 1 USSF WIA (no Med evac needed) as of 11205 situation in camp will under hard receiving periods harrasing fire.

- 15:30H: II Corps Elem of the 3rd Cav TF receiving fire ZA 178132 as of 1450H Air strike pending from Maj Spodie 24th Special Zone.

- (...)

- 22:00H: Msg to 1st Cav Maj Custer - Request a Wrap up on what A and B troop of 1/9 found today on screening mission vic Plei Me. Would also like to know what type and how many a/c involved. Need this info 260600 to brief Gen Larsen.

- 24:00H: Intelligence Summary for period 250001 to 252400. At 1221 II Corps reported 3d Armored TF (ARVN) moving south fm ZA 169150 in route to Plei Me. Plei Me camp still receiving sporadic harrassing fire but report situation well in hand, 1 US WIA but no med evac needed, successful resupply at Plei Me at 0800, a/c rec'd AW fire. At 1530 rec'd report from II Corps that 3d Armd Cav TF receiving fire vic ZA 178132 as of 1450 hrs. Air strike called.

26 October 1965

- 04:10H: MACV (Sgt Higdon) - Question fm Capt McAfree, Asst Duty Off. Ref Plei Me, latest VC KIA figures. Locaction of ARVN and 1st Cav units. Plans for today in Plei Me.

- 05:15H: MACV (Sgt Higdon) relief force continues to move toward camp.

- 06:10H: MACV (Sgt Higdon) Ref Plei Me (encoded): 2/8 Cav, 2/19 Arty (-), ZA 217109; 1/9 Cav Sqdn, ZA 107288; ARVN units vic 1K N of camp.

- 10:00H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Ref Plei Me: a few mortar rds hit in camp at 260715H. No cas.

- 11:55H: II Corps (Capt Ubelhor) 22 Ranger, 21 Ranger, 3 ACTF, 1 bn, 25 Regt, Objs: ZA 170085 and ZA 150080, ZA 180090, and ZA 185060.

- 12:20H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) request II Corps give a progress or situation report every two hours on Plei Me.

- 12:35H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Latest location of Armd TF (Center of mass) ZA 155067. 1 VC CIA at 1220H.

- 13:05H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) As of 1303 Plei Me is receiving mortar fire from SW. Airstrike in progress.

- 13:25H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) At 1320 Plei Me was undergoing vigorous attack with 57mm and heavy mortar fire. VC got within 20 meters of the fence.

- 14:00H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) As of 1345 unit still in contact. Firefight taking place SW of camp. Appears that the VC's are well dug in, some tunnels have been discovered.

- Delayed entry 11:35H: II Corps (Capt Campbell) results of ambush N of Plei Me. Enemy equipment captured: 28 Russian carbines, 22 AK assault rifles, 3 SMG, 1 US carbine, 1 US M-1, 2 rifles, 4 light MG, 1 57 RR, 1 pistol; air FAC estimated 200 KBA. 123 actual KIA (BC).

- 14:30H: A relief Armd Cav force was coming down road and at 231800 were hit by 2 Bns, 32d (VC) regt vic ZA 187189 and ZA 170164. Another Bn (believed to be fm 32 Regt) attacked ZA 170175 at 240300. At 240700 VC units sited moving west ZA 130170. Body count and air FAC est of VC losses taken morning of 24th.

- 14:30H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Ref Plei Me: Frd Cas: 5 US WIA, 3 from AC units, 2 ARVN US Advisors.

- 14:45H: 1st Cav - (Maj Durand) - 1st Bde rpt that Plei me is receiving mortar fire as of 1315H. No further details are available. The size of the VC force is unk. Recon and ambush patrols last night today produced neg results. Ref: A previous report given to us at 1200 hrs. 2 air strikes were put in at 692557. Also arty fm 1/77 arty bn. fired 71 rds. of high explosives and 31 rds of WP, parts of the area were burning and neutralized.

- 16:25H: II Corps Capt Ushijima - 1/42 engaged SW of Plei Me. Arty fire delayed for air strikes. Arty to resume 1600 firing.

- 17:10H: II Corps Capt Neary - Rpt fm 24th Special TAC Zone. Ref: Cas. rpt vic Plei Me rec'd 261425 fm II Corps. Results of action at 261400 hrs at Plei Me should stand corrected at: 3 US WIA (Arty FO's fm 1st Cav) Unit unk. 30 ARVN WIA.

- 19:00H: Capt Valley to TOC - Capt Valley informed G3 that CG had directed 1st Cav to commit as required all elems of 1st Bde in Pleiku - Plei Me area to assist in relief of Plei Me and the destruction of the VC forces in that area. DSA II Corps informed and requested to advise Gen Vinh Loc that if required additional Bn's of Cav would be positioned Pleiku for that town's security.

- 20:00H: 1st Cav Maj Henderson - B/1/8 return to base 1730H.

- 24:00H: Operation Summary for period 260001 to 262500 Oct 65. 3 FO's with ARVN units in Plei Me wounded by mortar fire approx 1600H. Opn Buster postponed indefinitely. 1900 Capt Valley informed G3 that CG had directed 1st Cav to commit as required all elements of 1st Bde in Pleiku and the destruction of the VC forces in that area. DSA II Corps informed and requested to advise Gen Vinh Loc that if required additional Bns of Cav would be positioned Pleiku so that towns security would be safe.

27 October 1965

- 04:15H: 1st Cav Capt Birdy- Eff 262130. Mission 1st Bde atk 27th Oct to capture destroy formation force zone vic Plei Me. Area of opn: ZA 1841450, ZA 180120,ZA 190115, ZA 190090, ZA 17090, ZA 174060, ZA 166060, ZA 154057, ZA 13020, ZA 128010, ZA 240010, ZA 240050, AR 770100, AR 770150, ZA 184150. H-Hour 0700H.

- 05:00H: II Corps Capt Elliott - Following info passed to MACV while FFV was out of commo with them. Total cas up to date: Plei Me: US: 13 KIA, 9 WIA, 0 MIA. ARVN: 60 KIA, 176 WIA, 19 MIA. VC: 164 KIA (US Count), 217 KIA (ARVN Count), 5 CIA.

- 06:05H: MACV Sgt Galimore - 1st Cav atks 0700 area west of Plei Me camp. Area of opns ZA 185150 to AR 770150 - ZA 240010 to ZA 19090.

- 07:05H: II Corps (Sgt Ubelhor) - Encoded - C co 1/9 Cav Sqdn, D and B Co 2/8 Cav located vic ZA 204110. B/2/19 Arty, A/2/20 Arty, HQ 2/8 and C/2/8 loc vic ZA 31513.

- 12:30H: Fm Capt Reich, II Corps (w/Gen Larsen): Gen's Larsen, Kinnard and Knowles, and Col Mataxis are now meeting with Gen Vinh Loc to work out extension or modification of present 1st Air Cav Div TAOR vic Plei Me to comply with MACV oral instructions to develop a big TAOR centered around Plei Me to find, fix and destroy the VC in that area. Gen Larsen called Gen Collins requesting MACV touch base with JGS so similar VN instructions can be passed to Gen Vinh Loc. 1st Cav has elements on ground vic Plei Me that are searching around the western side of the camp moving south. Opn being supported by mortars positioned 4K's due south of camp. ARVN is operating from 360 degrees to 270 degrees around camp at a radius of 3K's. Support being provided by tanks. However, the terrain is limiting this support. Gen Larsen told Gen Kinnard to stop the Tuy Hoa opn for evaluation ref COMUSMACV's order. Gen Vinh Loc plans to extract the 2 Abn Ranger Co's from Plei Me. (Passed to G3)

- 12:45H: 1st Cav (Maj Custer) 1/8 (-) is now 1st Cav Div Reaction force.

- 15:00H: II Corps (Capt Reich) ARVN all arrived Plei Me camp.

- 19:30H: II Corps - 3 Armor 164066; 21st Rangers 163168, 22d Ragners 161065, 1/42 161066, neg contact; Plei Me, all ZA prefix.

- 21:00H: Plei Me results as of 271400H Oct from ARVN TOC: Frd losses: Abn Ranger, 15 KIA, 20 WIA. LLBD, 1KIA. CIDG, 21 KIA, 21 WIA, 6MIA. US, 12 KIA, 8WIA. 3rmd Cav, 7 KIA, 27 WIA, 4 MIA. 1/42, 32 KIA, 72 WIA, 2 MIA. 21st Rangers, 35 KIA, 5 WIA. 22d Rangers, 12 WIA. Arty, 4 KIA, 2 WIA, 6 MIA. Engr 1 WIA. Total: 111 KIA, 190 WIA, 18 MIA. VC losses: 211 KIA, 115 KBA, 6 CIA, 1 57 RR, 2 pistols, 2 81mm mortar, 12 cal .50 MG, 3 cal .30 MG, 9 BAR, 37 SMG, 22 rifles, 8 carbines, 2 M79, a B40 Anti tank wpn.

- 24:00H: Intelligence Summary for period 270001H to 272400H Oct 65. VC cas in Plei Me opn to date: 164 KIA (US Count), 217 KIA (ARVN Count), 5 VCC.

- 24:00H: Operation Summary for period 270001H to 272400H Oct 65. ARVN units are located at ZA 150076 and are proceeding to ZA 135050. Plei Me results as of 1400H, Frd 111 KIA, 190 WIA, 18 MI., VC 326 KIA, 6 CIA. Ask Cav - 1st Bde has mission to atk and destroy VC vic Plei Me.

28 October 1965

- 02:00H: II Corps Capt Neary - All is quiet at Plei Me.

- 02:30H: II Corps (Capt Neary) - After ceremony at Pleiku with Chief of State, 3 armd TF moved to ZA PUNT ZA 183117. At 1600 HALF of 22d Ranger secured arty at PUNT. Half secured arty at 2d pos. On 29 Oct 3d armd TF moves thru Mar Bde to Pleiku by trk. Trks rtn and move Mar Bde to Pleiku.

- 04:00H: II Corps Capt Neary - All is quiet at Plei Me.

- 05:05H: II Corps Capt Neary - All is quiet at Plei Me. There is nothing significant to report.

- 05:15H: MACV (Sgt Gallimore) Answers to questions rec'd FFV TOC 0130H (for Maj Kirby). Ref Plei Me: 1) 2/8 Cav vic ZA 153039, 2/12 Cav vic ZA 187119, 1/9 Cav vic ZA 140145, 2/19 Arty (-) vic ZA 220110. 2) 1/12 Cav vic Pku, plan not known; 1/8 Cav moving to Pku, 75% complete. 3) Assumed mission 27 Oct.

- 07:00H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Sitrep on Plei Me: No contact. Mar Bde continues move to My Trach.

- 07:20H: II Corps (Capt Franklin) Mans 26 Oct of 1st Air Cav (Pku-Plei Me area): 1) Beginning 1st light, provide Arty spt during ARVN extraction Plei Me to Pku. 2) Provide helilift for ARVN elem as necessary. 3) Find, fix and destroy VC units moving West. 4) Conduct search and destroy opns out to 30 KM West of NS grid line ZA 14. 1st Bde, 1st Cav Task Organization: 1/12, 2/12, 1/8, 2/8 Abn Cav. ARVN plans Pku-Plei Me area 28-29 Oct: 1) Beginning 1st light, Marine TF of 1st & 4th Mar Bns truck fm Pku to vic AR 7627, march to vic of meeting engagment on __ Oct (XA 1717), sweep area and return Pku on 29 Oct. 2) Approx 281100H, entire relief force (1/42, 21 Ranger, 22 Ranger, 2/6 APC, 3/5 Tk) depart loc vic Plei Me, destination, Pku, arr 29 Oct. 22 Ranger splits fm convoy vic ZA 1812, proceeds to Cav Arty px vic ZA 185120 and ZA 219109 and relieve US Inf elem of Arty security msns.

- 10:10H: 1st Cav (Capt Brady) Acknowledge receipt msg 38215. 1/12 moving to YA 960240. 2/12 moves after 1/12 to search area 6 KM radius center of mass ZA 120110. 2/8 moving from Plei Me to PUNT. 1/9 screening fm 00 to 10 NS grid line. 1st elem 1st Bde PUNT 9845H. 1st Bde CP loc ZA 202241.

-10:30H: II Corps (Capt Campbell) Quest: Were there two NCO's captured at Plei Me or only one? FFV rec'd TWX indicating only one was captured. Previous reports show two were captured. Ans: there were two captured. One was the MSGT mentioned in TWX, the other was not a sergeant but a corporal. The cpl's interrogation supported the MSGT's statement. Other VVC were taken. Capt Campbell will check this MED and will send FFV a list of VCC by name.

- 11:00H: II Corps (Capt Campbell) POWS (in hands of II Corps: 1) Captured by 1st AC: MSGR Suon Hai. 2) Captured by SF: Cpl Nguyen Suon Lynn. 3) Captured by SF: Pvt Hoang Van Chung fm 32d Regt. 4) Captured by 1st AC: Name unk, died after arrival at IPW Center, was wounded. 5) II Corps has also two Montagnards suspected of being used by VC as guards. No significant intl value.

-18:25H: II Corps (Capt Elliot) 2 Abn Ranger helilifted to _ from Plei Me at 1600 today.

- 23:50H: II Corps - Capt Elliott - 5th Abn Bn 281800H, YU 774457. Plei Me 2345H, 4 rds mortar, 2355H, 1 rd. No cas.

29 October 1965

- 07:50H: II Corps Capt Ushijima - No change in Plei Me. Forces are still situated in area 1.

- 09:15H: FFV Adv - Informed 1st Cav & II Corps to have Weapons Report on Plei Me opn in to FFV TOC by 291500.

- 09:25H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Ref extraction of units from Plei Me: 21st Rangers, 1/42 Inf & Engr Spt Elem departed assemby area #1 as of 290820H.

- 10:35H: II Corps (Sgt Minney)(encoded) Request Delta Team locations and no fire zones for them.

- 10:35H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Convoy for extraction are located vic Obj 2. The trps that were reported moving out Area #1 at 0820H are still in area. They are waiting for Engrs to complete sweeping roads of mines.

- 11:00H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Ref your encoded msg (Concerning loc of Delta Tms). II Corps has no knowledge of their locations.

- 11:15H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) No change ref Plei Me.

- 12:30H: II Corps (Capt Ushijima) Ref Plei Me: 1/42 21st Ranger arr Pku 1215H. All damaged equipment has been removed. Ask II Corps whether 1/42 is staying at Pku or going home station? Going back to home station.

- 17:40H: 1st Cav - A/2/19 at PUNT; B/1/8 and 1st Bde at TOUCHDOWN. 1 Trp of 1/9 will attack Obj vic ZA 040030, remainder of 1/9 vic YA 958249.

- 17:45H: 1st Cav (Maj Custer) msg - 2/12 locations: A Co, ZA 101132; B Co, ZA 111148; C Co, ZA 108156; D Co, ZA 104148; HQ CP, ZA 119138. 1/12 locations: HQ & Co, YA 958249; D Co, YA 958245; C Co, YA 963209; 1/2 B Co, YA 972231, 1/2 B Co, YA 906228. 2/8 located at PUNT

- 18:50H: II Corps (Capt Neary) 24 STZ CP and Armour TF closed Pku 1840H.

- 23:30: II Corps - Msg - Plei Me rec'd 10 rds mortar fire, 2 CIDG WIA, flareship on the way.

- 23:40H: II Corps (Capt Neary) 18-20 VC N of camp. SA and mortar fire and trip flares set off, results, 7 WIA. 1st Cav is support w/Arty.

30 October 1965

- 00:50H: II Corps (Major Black) - Ref Plei Me: Camp rec'd a few mortar rds, some trip flares were set off and some SA fire. Nothing serious. 7 cas, med evac requested. At 292350 Col Williams called Col Hieu, CofS II Corps. II Corps requested that 1st Cav TAOR be extended to include the Plei Me area except the camp itself. From present line on NS grid line ZA14 east to NS grid line AR77, on EW grid line ZA/AR15, south on AR77 to EW grid line 00, then west to NW grid line ZA14. Col Buchan, Gen Knowles, Col Williams and Col Mataxis agree.

- 00:12H: II Corps Col Williams - Request extension of TAOR (as outlined in telecon fm Maj Black at 0005) be approved by FFV. Col Barrow notified; Request approved 0025; II Corps notified 0030; 1st Cav notified 0040.

- 04:45H: II Corps Capt Neary - Med evac fm Plei Me complete at 0315. Total cas: 4 KIA, 8 WIA (7 of which were evacuated) All were CIDG.

- 18:55H: 1st Cav - B/2/17 fired 1 rd HE in Plei Me Camp, results: 7 KIA, 7 WIA (all CIDG). Round fired during registration; observer inside camp. 1 rd only landed inside camp. Investigation being conducted.

- 19:25H: II Corps (Capt Elliott) Rec'd report fm 1st Cav (fwd) that frd Arty, probably B/2/17, hit just outside Plei Me camp this afternoon at approx 1700. Believed to have been registering. ARVN had 7 KIA & 7 WIA. Investigation now under way. G3 Duty Off called 1st Cav (fw). Capt Cook had info & stated a Special Forces off had additional info & was about to brief 1st Cav G5. Will keep us informed.

- 23:30H: II Corps (Capt Elliott) Reinf arrived at Plei Me at 1900.

(Nota Bene: Colonel Hieu, as II Corps Chief of Staff, was mentioned in two instances: on 21 Oct 65 at 08:20H and on 30 Oct 65 at 00:50H).

Nguyen Van Tin
23 February 2010
(G3 D/J, IFFV, National Archives, College Park, Maryland)

Documents

- Primary

- Books, Articles

* Pleiku, the Dawn of Helicopter Warfare in Vietnam, J.D. Coleman, St. Martin's Press, New York, 1988.

* We Were Soldiers Once… and Young, General Harold G. Moore and Joseph L. Galloway, Random House, New York, 1992.

* "First Strike at River Drang", Military History, Oct 1984, pp 44-52, Per. Interview with H.W.O Kinnard, 1st Cavalry Division Commanding General, Cochran, Alexander S.

* The Siege of Pleime, Project CHECO Report, 24 February 1966, HQ PACAF, Tactical Evaluation Center.

* Silver Bayonet, Project CHECO Report, 26 February 1966, HQ PACAF, Tactical Evaluation Center.

- Viet Cong

generalhieu